Troy Haas Shares How Brownell has Helped Travelers Discover More for 139 years

Past President Bruce Rogers and President Jeff Stone with Rotarian Troy Haas

This week, the Rotary Club of Birmingham (RCB) welcomed Rotarian Troy Haas, Chairman & CEO of Brownell Travel, for a presentation on the company’s 139-year history, its response to industry disruption, and current travel trends.

Haas shared how Brownell, founded in 1887, has navigated world wars, economic downturns, the elimination of airline commissions, and the COVID-19 pandemic through continual reinvention while remaining anchored in its mission of enriching lives through exceptional travel. Today, Brownell operates a national travel advisory network with advisors in 31 states, as well as teams in Europe and Central America. He also discussed Brownell’s advisor development model and highlighted emerging travel trends, including extended family travel, nature-focused experiences, longer itineraries, and strategies to manage overtourism.

Bio for Troy Haas

Troy Haas, Vhairman and CEO of Brownell, has served Brownell for 32 years, managing over 150 employees and independent contractors in 25 states across the US. He earned a BA in Accounting from the University of Alabama, and an MBA from Harvard University. Troy loves Brownell’s Discover More approach and how it helps the Brownell team fulfill the Vision to:  ‘Enrich Lives Through Exceptional Travel Experiences’.

Troy is actively involved in the travel industry, serving on advisory boards for Four Seasons, Ritz Carlton and National Geographic/Lindblad Expeditions. He is active in Virtuoso and served as Chair of the Member Advisory Board and various Innovation Teams. He is actively involved in the ministry of the Church of the Advent, Co Chair of Railroad Park’s $5m Give the Gift of Green campaign and serves in several civic roles in the Birmingham community. Troy has been married to Ann for 45 years and they have three children, two grandchildren and two dogs.